Kuulmiskatseid

Kuulmiskatseid, or hearing tests, are a vital part of audiology and general healthcare. They are diagnostic procedures designed to assess an individual's ability to detect and interpret sounds. These tests help identify the presence, type, and degree of hearing loss, as well as evaluate the functioning of the auditory system.

The most common type of hearing test is pure-tone audiometry. This non-invasive test measures an individual's hearing thresholds at various frequencies. The patient listens to different tones presented at varying intensities and indicates when they can hear the sound. The results are plotted on an audiogram, a graph that visually represents hearing ability.

Other types of hearing tests include tympanometry, which measures the function of the middle ear, and otoacoustic emissions (OAEs), which assess the health of the inner ear's hair cells. Speech audiometry evaluates how well a person understands spoken words at different loudness levels. These tests are crucial for children, adults, and older individuals for early detection of hearing issues and appropriate intervention.

Hearing tests are performed by audiologists, hearing instrument specialists, and other trained healthcare professionals in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, and schools. Regular hearing screenings are recommended, especially for individuals exposed to loud noise or those with a family history of hearing loss. Early diagnosis and management of hearing impairment can significantly improve quality of life.